Cambodia

If you're planning to explore the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat, conduct business in bustling Phnom Penh, or pursue academic opportunities in this rapidly developing nation, understanding Cambodia's visa requirements is your essential first step toward an unforgettable journey.

Navigate Cambodia's Welcoming Immigration Framework

Cambodia maintains a tourist-friendly visa policy designed to encourage international visitors while ensuring proper documentation. Whether you're arriving for leisure exploration, professional ventures, or educational pursuits, the Kingdom offers multiple visa pathways tailored to diverse travel purposes.

Who Needs Cambodia Visa Authorization?

Most international travelers require proper visa documentation, with specific requirements varying by:

• Tourism and cultural exploration
• Business meetings and investment opportunities
• Academic research and educational programs
• Extended stays and employment ventures

Your Comprehensive Planning Resource

This expert guide transforms complex immigration procedures into clear, actionable strategies. Our systematic approach ensures you understand every requirement, from initial application through successful entry into this captivating Southeast Asian destination.

Most travelers need a visa to enter Cambodia, with limited visa-free access available only to citizens of specific countries. Cambodia operates a restrictive visa policy, requiring advance authorization for the majority of international visitors.

Visa-Free Entry Countries

Citizens of the following countries can enter Cambodia without a visa:

• ASEAN Member States: Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam (14-30 days depending on nationality)
• Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders: China, Russia, and South Korea (30 days for diplomatic purposes only)

Visa-Required Nationalities

All other nationalities, including United States, Canada, United Kingdom, European Union countries, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea (regular passports), and China (regular passports) must obtain a visa before arrival or upon arrival.

Passport Requirements

All visitors must present:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months from entry date
• At least one blank page for entry stamps
• Return or onward travel documentation

Transit Passengers

Transit passengers remaining in the international transit area and departing within 24 hours on confirmed onward flights do not require a visa. Passengers leaving the airport or staying longer must obtain appropriate visas.

Verification

Always verify current requirements through the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in your country or Cambodia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, as visa policies change frequently and may include seasonal restrictions or special conditions.

Cambodia offers diversified visa options tailored to various travel purposes, from short-term tourism to extended business engagements. Understanding the specific visa category that aligns with your intended activities ensures compliance with immigration regulations while maximizing your travel experience.

Tourist and Visitor Visas

Tourist Visa (T class) remains the most popular option for leisure travelers, valid for 30 days with single-entry privileges. Extension possibilities allow for additional 30-day periods. The e-Visa system provides convenient online processing within 3 business days, while visa-on-arrival services offer immediate processing at major entry points.

Business and Commercial Visas

Business Visa (E class) accommodates commercial activities, meetings, and investment exploration. This category offers both single and multiple-entry options with validity periods extending up to one year. Business visas require additional documentation including invitation letters and company registration certificates.

Employment and Work Permits

Employment visas facilitate long-term professional engagement, typically issued in conjunction with work permit applications. These visas demand comprehensive documentation including employment contracts and educational qualifications verification.

Student and Academic Visas

Academic visas support educational pursuits at recognized institutions. Students must present enrollment confirmation and financial capability evidence. Processing times typically require 5-7 business days due to additional verification requirements.

Transit and Special Categories

Transit visas accommodate brief stopovers, while diplomatic and official visa categories serve governmental delegations. Family reunion visas facilitate visits to Cambodian residents with appropriate sponsorship documentation.

Processing Times by Visa Type

Tourist visas (T-class) process within 3-5 business days for standard applications, while business visas (E-class) require 5-7 business days. Work permits and residence visas extend processing to 15-30 business days depending on documentation completeness. Peak season processing (December-February) may add 2-3 additional days to standard timeframes.

Visa Costs and Fee Structure

• Tourist visa (30 days): $36 USD
• Business visa (30 days): $45 USD
• Express processing: Additional $15-25 USD
• Multiple entry surcharge: $10 USD

Application Locations and Methods

Apply through the official eVisa portal for fastest processing, or visit Cambodian consulates worldwide. Major processing centers include Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Kuala Lumpur consulates. Visa-on-arrival remains available at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports with same-day issuance.

Essential Requirements

All applications require a passport valid 6+ months, recent passport photo, and completed application form. Business visas additionally require invitation letters or company registration documents. Payment accepted via credit card for eVisas or cash USD for visa-on-arrival.

Key Contact Information

Embassy of Cambodia, Washington DC: +1-202-726-7742
eVisa Support: support@evisa.gov.kh
Success rate: 98% for complete applications with proper documentation

Step 1: Determine Your Visa Type

Identify the correct visa category based on your travel purpose and intended duration. Cambodia offers tourist visas (T), business visas (E), and various other categories. Review requirements carefully as each type has specific documentation and validity periods.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

• Valid passport with minimum 6 months validity
• Recent passport-sized photographs (specific size requirements apply)
• Completed application form with accurate information
• Supporting documents based on visa type (invitation letters, hotel bookings, etc.)

Ensure all foreign documents are properly legalized and translated into English or Khmer by certified translators.

Step 3: Complete Application Forms

Submit applications through the official e-Visa portal for eligible visa types or use paper forms for consular submissions. Double-check all entries for accuracy as incorrect information frequently causes delays or rejections.

Step 4: Schedule and Submit Application

Book appointments at designated Cambodia consulates or embassies. Arrive punctually with organized documents. Some locations accept walk-in submissions during specified hours.

Step 5: Pay Required Fees

Process payments using accepted methods including credit cards, money orders, or bank transfers. Fee amounts vary by visa type and processing speed. Retain all payment receipts.

Step 6: Track Application Status

Monitor progress through official tracking systems using your reference number. Standard processing typically takes 3-5 business days for e-Visas and longer for consular applications.

Step 7: Receive Your Visa

Collect approved visas in person or receive electronic copies via email. Verify all details immediately upon receipt to ensure accuracy before travel.